Many moons ago, when I got this dagger, they were more questionable than they are now. Out of curiosity, I tried some unmarked PA lower guards, the type this dagger has, and some Gau-marked guards from the same maker. None even came close to a proper fit. The guard that came on it is a perfect fit. As a "plus" the dagger came with a "teardrop" hanger. I am not the least bit concerned about the originality of the dagger and wouldn't dream of having the Gau mark removed. It's the same old story, if such bothers you, don't buy. I wouldn't hesitate to buy another, if the Gau mark was the only "issue." Try swapping guards on any early political dagger and the odds are you won't get a satisfactory fit.
